Pamela Huntington Darling
Exclusive Cultural Travel Programs
Tel + 33 (0)1 45 67 62 81 – Email : This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it – Website: www.eventsofprestige.com

requests the pleasure of your participation in

We are pleased to offer you this exclusive, 6-day,6-night, cultural tour of private visits and receptions with their proprietors at admirable, private chateaux with remarkable collections and stunning gardens, most inaccessible to the public, as well as unique historical sites, including Mont Saint Michel, the Bayeux Tapestry, and more.

We will also discover the sites of the Normandy landing by the U.S. troops during the WWII American offensive, culminating in a private commemorative ceremony at the Memorial of the American Cemetery.

Throughout this exceptional tour, we will be accompanied by an expert guide and historian of Normandy’s remarkable heritage, specialist of chateaux and gardens, the battle of Normandy, its Medieval heritage, and its gastronomy.

For the first four nights, we will reside atChateau deCanisy, not open to the public, a luxurious chateau located in the Cotentin peninsula, guests of Count and Countess de Kergorlay. With a passion for history and culture, Denis de Kergorlay has devoted over 30 years of his life to environmental protection, humanitarian aid and cultural heritage. He is President of the French-American Association French Heritage Society, the European association Europa Nostra, and the prestigious club Cercle de l’Union Interalliée in Paris.

Chateau de Canisy, with its welcoming atmosphere and attentive service, is the perfect place for us to reside and relax while we enjoy our tour in Normandy. Protected by its vast park, forest and farmland, Canisyis a reflection of centuries of amazingly preserved heritage, passed down in the same family from generation to generation.

For the last two nights, we will stay in Deauville at the splendid Villa Josephine, situated in the center of this fashionable seaside resort, created during France’s second Empire for the world’s aristocrats. Protected by its private garden and the sea, Villa Josephine, a charming 19th century villa, registered as a "remarkable, historic building”, offers exquisite décor and a most personal and welcoming atmosphere.

Pamela Huntington Darling, specializing in organizing exclusive, unique cultural tours, providing access to exemplary private institutions and residences, will accompany you on this 6-day, 6-night exclusive program.

Monday, June 7
Morning
We will meet in the morning at Paris Gare Saint Lazare train station, travel in 1st class on the TGV fast train to Cherbourg where we will be met by our expert guide and transferred by private coach to Tocqueville.

Luncheon and Private Visit at Chateau de Tocqueville with Countess de Tocqueville
Countess de Tocqueville will welcome us for a special visit and luncheon. In view of the influence that the family’s famous ancestor, Alexis de Tocqueville, had on the United States, and as the proprietors rarely open their chateau to outside guests, other than the benefactors of the Tocqueville Society, this is a privileged invitation.

The one place where Alexis de Tocqueville felt at home was the Chateau de Tocqueville. When he saw it for the first time in 1833, he was immediately charmed by the feeling of serenity. In 1836, he inherited the Chateau. Above all, it was the place where he and his wife Marie found tranquility and inspiration and where he worked on his books, including “Democracy in America”. We will also have the privilege of visiting Tocqueville’s library and discover his archives.

Afternoon
Private Visit to Chateau de Pont-Rilly one of Normandy’s emblematic chateaux

We will be welcomed by the proprietors, Jean-Jacques and Annick Roucheray, for a private visit to their stunningly restored and decorated 18th century chateau, not open to public,housing a remarkable collection of antiques and artwork. Pont-Rilly, with its superb décor, gardens, outbuildings, rivers and park, is, indeed, one of Normandy’s emblematic chateaux.

Early Evening
Arrival at Chateau de Canisy, our home in Normandy

We will be greeted by Count de Kergorlay, schedule permitting, or the Chateau’s hostess and lead to our suites. Each one has its own personality, charm, elegance, warmth, spaciousness with luxurious modern bathrooms. We will enjoy the Chateau as if it were our home.

Located near the D-Day beaches, and Mont Saint Michel, protected by its vast park, its forest and farmland of 300 hectares, Chateau de Canisy is a reflection of centuries of remarkably preserved heritage, passed down in the same family from generation to generation.

With its warm and welcoming atmosphere, Canisy is the perfect place for us to relax while we enjoy our exclusive tour.

Evening
We will enjoy Champagne, cocktails, whatever we wish, in the reception rooms, followed by a candlelit dinner served in the dining room, specially prepared by Canisy’s expert chef with the finest and freshest regional ingredients and wines.

Tuesday, June 8
Morning
The Battle of Normandy

Our expert guide will lead us on a historical rendering of the American offensive in Normandy during WWII, with morning visits to Sainte-Mère-Eglise, the marshlands of Isle-Marie, and the famous Utah Beach. After a pause and luncheon, we will continue our historical journey to Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, and end at the American Cemetery where we will have a private, commemorative ceremony organized for us at the Memorial.

Visit to Sainte-Mère-Eglise, the first town liberated in France

More than 16,000 paratroopers of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions landed behind Utah Beach to assist the seaborne landings. Due to navigational errors, although most of the troops were dropped near their landing zones, many were dropped off course. John Steele, who fell on the church steeple of Sainte-Mère-Eglise, is a symbol of the paratroopers’ bravery. Homage is paid to these paratroopers, commemorated in two of the church’s stained-glass windows.

Private visit, with the proprietors, to Chateau de l’Isle-Marie, a landmark of the D-Day landing

We will be greeted by Dorothea de la Houssaye and Simon Rock de Besombes for a private visit to their splendid 17th century Norman manor, in the same family since the 11th century. Located on a 150-acre estate in the marshlands near Sainte-Mère-Eglise, Chateau de l’Isle-Marie is a landmark of the D-Day landing, where many of the U.S. 82nd Airborne Division’s 7,000 paratroopers were air dropped and some drowned.

Visit toUtah Beach

The first beach secured by the Allies in Operation Overlord, Utah Beach is known for its light casualties and the most successful invasion of D-Day. Before the landings, the Germans had dispatched their best troops to the countryside to search for the paratroopers. As a result, the troops of General Barton’s 4th Division faced only very light resistance. At the site of La Madeleine, the center of the landings on Utah Beach, we will observe the remains of German bunkers and Allied equipment near the monument to the American divisions who opened the “Road of Liberty”.

Luncheon atLa Marée

We will enjoy luncheon at this sought-after yet informal and welcoming restaurant offering maritime ambience and décor, and a fine selection of regional specialties, located on the port of the charming fishing village, Grandcamp Maisy, overlooking the sea and fishing boats.

Afternoon
Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach, American Cemetery

At Pointe du Hoc, our expert guide will recall the exceptional exploits of the U.S. Rangers 2nd Battalion. After scaling the 100-foot cliffs under intense enemy fire, the Rangers captured and destroyed the heavy guns capable of firing at a 15-mile range. Taking Pointe du Hoc was a laborious fight, longer than planned. The 2nd Battalion suffered heavy casualties, with only 90 of the original 225 still able to fight once relieved.

Omaha Beach was the scene of a terrible battle to capture Carentan and Saint Lo. Almost 34,000 soldiers of the famous 1st and 29th Infantry Divisions landed here on D-Day. Nearly all the pre-invasion bombardments missed the fortifications along the beach. One of the quality front German Infantry Divisions was present, making the D-Day assault the most difficult of all the beaches, earning the name “Bloody Omaha”. Only a few days after the landings, the Americans had transformed nearly the entire beach into a vast artificial harbour. It was used for less than a week before it was destroyed by a storm, and only a piece of the harbour is left today.

We will end our day’s visits at the NormandyAmerican Cemetery, overlooking the eastern end of Omaha Beach, where the remains of almost 10,000 American soldiers, who came to liberate Western Europe from the Germans, are at rest. We will have a private, commemorative ceremony at the Memorial. While the National Anthem and Taps are played, we will lay a wreath to in remembrance of our fallen heroes who sacrificed their life for Freedom.

Return to Chateau de Canisy

At the end of the afternoon, we will have time for relaxation at Canisy, reading, walking in the beautiful park, listening to music, enjoying refreshments, recounting the day, or watching the chef prepare dinner.

Evening
After cocktails in the reception rooms, a candlelit dinner will be served in the dining room, specially prepared by Canisy’s chef with the finest and freshest regional ingredients and wines.

Wednesday, June 9
Morning -Visit to Chateau de Brecy’semblematic gardens

Among the most impressive gardens in Normandy, Brecy’s were laid out in the 17th century and are reminiscent of the great gardens of Italy. Terraces enhanced by sculptures, stone balustrades, and fountains rise from the chateau toward the horizon. The gardens’ present splendour is due to the masterful restoration and inspiration of the current owners, Barbara and Didier Wirth, president of the French Parks and Gardens Association. Brecy is renowned as one of the most beautiful small gardens of Europe.

Luncheon
Private Visit and Luncheon at Chateau de Creullet, with the proprietor
We will be welcomed by the proprietor, a French noble, for a private visit and luncheon at this elegant 18th century chateau, originally a country manor built in the 17th century, birthplace of the famous Norman barons of Creully, not open to the public. The large, formal gardens, designed in Lenotre’s tradition, run to the front of the chateau, with a pond and terraces overlooking the valley. The lawn is bordered by balusters and pilasters, in the same style as the 17th century ornamentation of the Brecy gardens.

During WWII, General Montgomery, Commander of the operation Overlord, set up his headquarters here and met with high officials, including King George VI, Sir Winston Churchill, and General de Gaulle. More recently, the proprietors have received dignitaries, such as President Jacques Chirac, Prince Charles, and the Duchesse of Kent.

Afternoon
Private visit of the Chateau de Bény-sur-Mer, with the proprietor

The proprietor will welcome us for a private visit to his admirable 17th century residence and gardens, not open to public. We will admire his fabulous collection of antique and artwork, and his unique collection of harpsichords dating from the 17th and 18th centuries, coveted by experts throughout the world. An avid amateur of music, patron of the Arts, and a recognized maestro, our host has agreed to play short Baroque segments on two of his prized harpsichords. After this inspiring rendition, we will visit the gardens and be served refreshments in the “orangerie”.

Return to Chateau de Canisy for tea and relaxation before our memorable evening at Chateau de Balleroy.

Evening
Private Visit and Dinner at Chateau de Balleroy, property of the Forbes’ family

We will have a special, private evening, thanks to Christopher Forbes, at Balleroy, an admirable 17th century chateau designed by the classical architect François Mansart, with marvelous gardens designed by Duchène. We will enjoy a visit of the Chateau with the curator, followed by cocktails in the library and a delicious dinner, specially prepared by the chef, in the dining room.

The lateMalcolm S. Forbes, a Staff Sergeant during the Normandy invasion, vowed to return and to acquire a home in this area, so dear to him. After being in the same family for centuries, in 1970 Balleroy became Mr. Forbes’ property. The Forbes family returns often to this extraordinary estate. This will indeed be a memorable evening!

Thursday, June 10
Morning – Or Free Time at Chateau de Canisy and its park
Visit to Mont-Saint-Michel with our expert guide

A site that inspires us each time we return is the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel, considered one of the Seven Wonders of the World. This “miraculous” edifice is one of the first sites to obtain the UNESCO World Heritage listing due to its prodigious history, its Medieval architecture, and its unique setting, on the scale of which the world has no equal.

A major site of Christian pilgrimage, the worship of Saint Michel commenced here in 708 and became one of the most important sites of Medieval pilgrimage. Around the Abbey spreads the entire bay with the strongest tides in Europe and breathtaking views.

Luncheon
Luncheon at the renowned “La Mère Poulard”

We will enjoy a relaxing luncheon of regional specialties at this charming auberge, nestled in an ancient dwelling on Mont-Saint-Michel, a marvelous setting filled with history, ambience, and warm hospitality.

Afternoon
Private visit to the Manoir de Saussey, with the proprietor

We will be welcomed by Jacques Langellié, proprietor of this intriguing 17th century manor decorated with amazing 17th century furniture, surrounded by romantic gardens. A retired antique dealer, our host will unveil his unique collection of glassware from France, Venice, the Netherlands, Saxony, Bohemia, England and Spain, dating from the 1st to the 18th century, as well as fine, antique ceramics.

We will also discover a remarkable, unique collection of 17th and 18th century French and Italian nativity scenes, made by nuns, commissioned by wealthy patrons.

Return to Chateau de Canisy

Before dinner, we will have time for relaxation at Canisy, reading, walking in the beautiful park, listening to music, enjoying refreshments, recounting the day, or watching the chef prepare dinner.

Evening
After cocktails in the reception rooms, a candlelit dinner will be served in the dining room, specially prepared by the chef, for our last evening at Canisy.

Friday, June 11
Morning

With fond memories, we will take leave of our residence at Chateau de Canisy and commence our journey to Deauville, Honfleur, and the marvelous Pays d’Auge.

Visit to the Bayeux Tapestry, a “Memory of the World” with our expert guide

It is always inspiring to return to admire this unique work of art. Listed by UNESCO as a “Memory of the World”, the 11th century Bayeux Tapestry is one of the most historically significant embroideries and chronicles of its time.

This amazing 230-foot long tapestry offers a splendidly vivid depiction of the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, beginning with Harold of Wessex’s visit to Normandy and culminating with the flight of the English army at Hastings. All the main intervening events are covered in painstaking detail in this remarkably preserved work of art.

Luncheon
Private Visit & Luncheon at Chateau de Brouay, with the proprietor, Baron d’Aboville

A privileged invitation, indeed, Baron d’Aboville will greet us at his family’s historic, beautifully decorated, Chateau de Brouay, with its stunning park, not open to public, built in the 17th and 18th centuries, for a private visit followed by a convivial luncheon and a tasting of the Chateau’s outstanding Calvados, one of the finest of the region.

Afternoon – Deauville
Arrival at the Villa Josephine, our private residence in Deauville

Situated in the center of Deauville, surrounded by its garden and the sea, Villa Josephine is classed by the French government as a “remarkable building of the region”. Built at the end of the 19th century in traditional Norman style, the villa belonged to the former Mayor of Deauville and personal friend of the Duke de Morny, one of the mythical figures of the Second Empire, who created this celebrated seaside resort.

After a remarkable restoration, Josephine Petit opened this magical residence in 2005 as a boutique hotel. It has since become a coveted address of a discerning clientele.With 9 handsomely-appointed guest rooms, sitting rooms and a breakfast room, Villa Josephine offers elegance, intimacy, and a warm and relaxing atmosphere.

Guests will enjoy relaxing at our new residence, a leisure walk around town, shopping at the international boutiques or antique shops, or sipping a drink at a boardwalk café while watching the waves, the boats, or the people…

Evening
Private visit to the Villa Strassburger, guests of the Mayor of Deauville

Guests of Philippe Augier, Mayor of Deauville, we will be invited for a private visit to the sumptuous Villa Strassburger, a superb neo-Norman manor with beautiful gardens rising on a hill above the sea, former residence of Gustave Flaubert and Henri de Rothschild.

After WWI, the wealthy American Beaver Strassburger bought the villa, his favorite residence. In 1980, his son donated it to Deauville for the Mayor’s official receptions. Listed a French Historic Monument, its architecture and luxurious décor make it one of the region’s premium villas.

Dinner at the bistro Les 4 Chats – Or free evening for guests

We will enjoy a convivial evening at Les 4 Chats, a lively bistro favored by local residents and cosmopolites alike. Or, guests may enjoy dinner on their own at one of the restaurants that we will recommend.

Saturday, June 12
Morning
Visit to the historic Port of Honfleur

We will visit the delightful port of Honfleur, situated on the estuary of the Seine, as well as the old area of the town with its cobble-stoned streets, its traditional ancient Norman houses, its famous Sainte Catherine church, dating back from the 16th Century, and its Eugene-Boudin museum, dedicated to the acclaimed artist of the Normandy seashores. We will be transported back in time in this seaside town that has kept its unique charm.

Luncheon at Auberge du Dauphin, Michelin-starred restaurant

We will enjoy a relaxing and delicious cuisine that has consistently won the talented chef a star in the Michelin Guide. Housed in a charming Norman manor, it is a favorite address of those who appreciate fine cuisine and warm hospitality. Even Queen Elizabeth comes here when purchasing her thoroughbreds in Deauville.

Afternoon
The Pays d’Auge—Normandy at its Best

We will continue on our journey of this gorgeous area of Normandy, one of the rare regions of France that has preserved its villages and countryside of times past. Besides the beauty of the setting and the distinct Norman architecture of the small farms and manors, the glory of the Pays d’Auge resides in its cider, Calvados, and cheese. We will enjoy a brief visit to the breathtaking ChateauSaint-Germain-de-Livet, built in the 16th century and admirably restored, one of the Pay d’Auge’s gems. We will continue to Beaumont-en-Auge, a charming small village with shops of long ago with an outstanding view overlooking the valley and the Touques River.

Late Afternoon
Villa Josephine

We will return to our residence in Deauville, Villa Josephine to relax, have a leisurely walk along the sea, or shop at the international boutiques, before our memorable Farewell Dinner.

Evening
Farewell Dinner at the Manoir des Evêques with the proprietor and French-American Friends

We will be welcomed by the proprietor, Alain Saint-Loubert-Bié, to his remarkable, historical private residence, the “Manoir des Evêques”, for a festive and memorable farewell dinner with a few French-American friends. The manor, with its superb park, is one of the two gems of the “Pays d’Auge”, with the Chateau Saint-Germain-de-Livet. Built in the 15th century, the manor is remarkably preserved and superbly decorated. This will be a wonderful way to culminate our Normandy tour before bidding farewell!

Sunday, June 13
“Au Revoir”

After breakfast, we shall bid each other “Au Revoir”. Guests may leave Deauville at their choice of time by train to Paris, a 2-hour ride, in 1st- class accommodation. We will be pleased to make your return reservation.

Guests are also welcome to prolong their stay in Deauville and will be offered preferential rates at Villa Josephine.

All transfers in Normandy will be made in a private, air-conditioned coach. Round-trip transfer from Paris to Normandy, will be made by fast train in 1st class, air-conditioned compartments.

New Tour Price: $6,000 per person based on double occupancy; $600 single supplement applies; based on an exchange rate of $1.38/1 Euro and a minimum of 10 participants (maximum 15 participants).

Rate includes: 6 days of private visits and receptions; 6 nights of accommodation in 4-star luxury residences; all breakfasts; 5 luncheons and 5 dinners; costs involved in the program, transport to and from Paris, and events during the tour, all private visits, historian, etc.

For more information, to receive the detailed program, and to reserve, please email or call Pamela Huntington Darling at your earliest convenience. Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Tel.: Paris: 011 33 1 45 67 62 81.

To assure availability, please reserve with your 1st deposit before March 15th.